Looking for things to do in West Ashley? From the always fun West Ashley Park to the brand new farmer’s market and Higgins Pier, there’s a lot of inexpensive (and free!) ways to spend your time outside west of the Ashley River. Here are four of our favorites:

The West Ashley Bikeway starts at Wappoo Road, crosses Highway 61/St Andrews Boulevard, and continues all the way to the beautiful Ashley River, connecting residential neighborhoods along the way, like Sherwood Forest, Maryville, and Ashleyville. And this is a particularly exciting time for the Bikeway, since this summer, Higgins Pier officially opened at the end of the path on the River. The last stretch of the path before the pier is a peaceful one surrounded by forests before giving way to the magnificent view of the marsh. At the pier, you may fish, launch a kayak, or simply meditate with a book under the covered pier head and while away a lovely Charleston Day.

The West Ashley Greenway is a sacred thing for nearby residents, who use the part-asphalt, part-dirt trail for running, walking dogs, and biking. The path is over eight miles long, extending from Wesley Drive (the South Windermere neighborhood) and nearly to Main Road, Johns Island. Along the way is everything from lush, wooded areas, where you can still find fireflies if you go at the perfect hour, to the breathtaking Lowcountry marsh. Go for a walk around 5.30 p.m. and you’ll likely pass many of your neighbors as it’s the most popular time of day to venture out. Don’t forget your bike lights if you go after dark, since the area is not well lit.

This is a two-in-one spot, since you get both produce galore in the great outdoors, plus there’s a dog park — so everyone’s happy, pups included. Launching today, Wed. Sept. 21, 2016, the West Ashley’s farmer’s market is a huge, welcome addition to the area, since with it comes boocoos of both established and fresh, new producers and food products. Get in on the action while you can, because this farmer’s market only goes every Wednesday until October 26.

Off Glenn McConnell Highway, you’ll find an oasis from the freeway at West Ashley Park, one of Charleston’s largest recreational parks. The park is 260 acres large, comprising everything from playgrounds (two) and a basketball court to a soccer field and an 18-hole disc golf course, which brings sports lovers of all ages and levels of expertise. Walk on the lush path past gorgeous swamps to a serene pond, where fishermen cast their lines and watch wild birds wander about. Bring your pups, too, because the park also boasts a dog park.

We’ve reached the 70’s! I have packed away the sweaters and I am ready for spring, how about you?

MY favorite thing about the beginning of spring is it’s time to frolic with the dogs! There’s no better excuse to get some fun and some exercise than taking a walk with your four legged friend near or on the beach.* The sun is shining down, the water has a chill but it’s fine for wading in bare feet. Everyone is cheerful because they know winter is near its end, the daffodils are already in bloom as are camelias. Windows are open for some fresh air. Charleston is new again!

But back to the dogs. I’ve just got two cats right now and any cat owner can attest they just are not the type of animals you can put a leash on and hit the outdoors for some air and exercise. However, I am a lucky aunt to many a friends’ dogs and I take every opportunity I can to whisk them away for warm weather adventures. There is a lowkey little “Bark Park” on the Isle of Palms. It’s not much more than some patches of dirt and grass in a large fenced in enclosure with a separate run for smaller dogs but everyone there is always friendly and the dogs do what they do- just play. It’s on 29th Ave. behind the Rec Center. That’s closest to my house so it’s my favorite. But there are dog parks all over the area. I will say if you are ever new in town anywhere, a dog park is an instant ice breaker. There’s always a conversation starter when you’re surrounded by playing dogs.

The IOP park is closest to where I live, but there are several area dog parks. James Island County Park (there is a lake area for the dogs), Wannamaker County Park in North Charleston, and Palmetto Islands Park in Mt. Pleasant each have dog friendly areas. I’ve never lived in such a pet friendly city before!

Nothing beats the beach though. I have never seen a happier dog than a dog that gets a few miles out and smells the salt water and suddenly is aware of where he/she’s going. THAT is a happy dog.

*Every beach has its own policy about dogs- there are leash laws, hours of dog friendliness, necessary dog licenses, etc. and only a few of our rental properties are pet friendly so check before your bring your dog.